What’s an eSIM, Anyway? Everything You Need to Know

eSIM vs. Physical SIM: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with the basics: a SIM card or SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) is a small, yet mighty, piece of plastic that holds your phone number, plan and carrier info, and a bunch of other technical stuff that gives you secure access to a mobile network. Think of it as your phone’s VIP pass to the wireless world.

Enter: the eSIM. Short for embedded SIM, it does everything a physical SIM does, but it’s built directly into your phone — meaning no tray, no little card to lose, and a quicker, more secure activation.

How Does an eSIM Work?

With eSIMs, you can download your cellular plan over Wi-Fi or by scanning a QR code, and boom! — you’re up and running. You can also switch carriers or plans without needing to wait for a physical SIM card to arrive.

The Benefits of eSIMs

Here’s why eSIMs are a game-changer:

1. They Simplify Connecting to a Network

No need to wait for a SIM card in the mail or hunt down a SIM vendor. Activate your eSIM instantly from your phone — no tools, no stress. Just make sure you’ve got a solid Wi-Fi connection. 

2. You Can Have Two Numbers on One Device

Most phones that support eSIM also support Dual-SIM setups. That means you can run two lines — like a personal and a work line — on a single phone. No more swapping phones at happy hour!

3. Easier Lifesaver When Traveling Internationally

With eSIM, you can grab a local data plan when you’re abroad right from your hotel Wi-Fi. No more outrageous international roaming fees or sketchy airport SIM-card hustles.

4. Added Security

Lose your phone? Your eSIM can be disabled remotely, making it way harder for someone to hijack your phone number or personal info. Plus, eSIMs eliminate the ability to SIM-swap, one of the most common phone scams.

5. Good for the Planet

Nearly five billion physical SIM cards are produced annually. While SIMs might be small, they still have a massive environmental impact. Simply put, eSIMs are better for the environment. No plastic SIM means less waste. It’s good for your conscience and the planet. Mother Earth approves.

Which Phones Are eSIM Compatible?

We’ve got a handy little tool to help you sort that out. Luckily, if your phone was made in the last five years, chances are it’s eSIM compatible.

• Apple: iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, iPhone 14, and newer (including models with no SIM tray)
  
  

• Samsung: Galaxy S20 and up, Galaxy Note 20, Z Flip and Z Fold series
  
  

• Motorola: razr (2020) and newer
  
  

• Other phones that support eSIM: Google Pixel, some Nokia and Sony models, and more

How to Activate an eSIM with Boost Mobile